In this episode of the Women's Football Hub Podcast, host Carolyn Kent speaks with Tracey Smith, founder of Player Care Support Services, about the essential role of off-pitch support in football. From helping players settle into new countries to supporting their families and mental wellbeing, Tracey shares her experience working across male and female academies and professional teams. We discuss: The importance of holistic player care Cultural and language challenges for international players Gender differences in academy support structures How clubs can better invest in their players off the pitch Real-life success stories and practical advice for clubs and players Whether you're a coach, player, or football enthusiast, this episode offers valuable insights into the human side of the game. #WomensFootball #PlayerCare #FootballSupport #MentalHealth #FootballAcademy #FootballPodcast #CarolynKent #TraceySmith #PCSS #WomenInSport #FootballTransitions

In this episode of the Women's Football Hub Podcast, Dr. Ian Cookson is joined by Lucy Burdin, a freelance sports psychologist with experience at Arsenal Women’s Academy and London City Lionesses. Together, they explore the psychological demands of goalkeeping, the impact of trauma and somatic psychology on athletes, and how attachment theory plays out in sporting environments. Lucy shares her journey into trauma-informed practice, the importance of building trust with athletes, and how being present can transform performance and wellbeing. Whether you're a player, coach, or parent, this episode offers valuable insights into the human side of sport. Connect with Lucy: Instagram: @thesupportpsych Website: thesupportpsychologist.com LinkedIn: The Support Psychologist Support the Hub: www.womensfootballhub.com #SportsPsychology #TraumaInSport #SomaticPsychology #GoalkeeperMindset #Women'sFootball #MentalHealthInSport #LucyBurdin #FootballPodcast #AthleteWellbeing #PsychologyInFootball

In this episode of the Women's Football Hub Podcast, host Carolyn Kent is joined by Harry Watson, Women's Goalkeeping Talent Coach at the FA, to shine a spotlight on the art and science of identifying and developing goalkeeping talent in the women's game. They discuss: The FA’s “Discover My Talent” initiative Why early specialisation can be risky The evolving standards of goalkeeping in the WSL The impact of role models like Mary Earps and Hannah Hampton The myth of shrinking goal sizes How grassroots clubs can better support young goalkeepers This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about women's football, youth development, or the goalkeeper position. #WomensFootball #Goalkeeping #FA #TalentID #WSL #Lionesses #YouthFootball #FootballDevelopment #GoalkeeperUnion #CarolynKent #HarryWatson #DiscoverMyTalent #ChatGPT

In this episode of Women's Football Hub, host Carolyn Kent speaks with Dr Paul Pearson, whose Injury Time Report investigates the impact of acquired brain injuries on footballers in Scotland. Drawing from interviews with nine players, including those diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer's, Dr Pearson discusses the physical, emotional, and financial toll of brain injuries, the gaps in support systems, and the urgent need for recognition and reform. Whether you're a player, coach, parent, or fan, this episode offers vital insights into how football can better protect its athletes—on and off the pitch. 📌 Learn more: www.injury-time.com📧 Contact Dr Pearson: p.pearson.research@gmail.com🛍️ Support the Women's Football Hub: www.womensfootballhub.com #FootballPodcast #BrainInjuryAwareness #PlayerVoice #ConcussionInSport #FootballSafety #WomensFootball #InjuryTimeReport #NeurodegenerativeDisease #PodcastAI

In this episode of the Women's Football Hub Podcast, host Carolyn Kent speaks with Lauren McMurchie, safeguarding lead at Kyniska Advocacy and former professional footballer, about the pioneering safeguarding initiative now being delivered in partnership with the Barclays Women's Super League. Lauren discusses the importance of proactive safeguarding, red flag behaviors, the role of leadership, and the unique challenges faced by female athletes in professional environments. This episode highlights how safeguarding is evolving in women's football and why creating healthy environments is essential for performance and wellbeing. Whether you're a player, coach, practitioner, or fan this conversation offers valuable insights into the future of safeguarding in professional women's football. Follow us on social media and visit our merch store at womensfootballhub.com Hashtags:#SafeguardingInSport #WSL #LaurenMcMurchie #KyniskaAdvocacy #WomensFootball #SafeSport #AthleteWelfare #FootballPodcast #WomenInSport #PlayerCare

In this episode of the Women’s Football Hub Podcast, Carolyn Kent sits down with Andrew Mitchell, an experienced sports physiotherapist who has worked with RB Leipzig and co-authored the 2024 paper A Return to Performance Pathway for Professional Soccer: A Criteria-Based Approach. Together, they explore the full rehabilitation journey: from the first 24–48 hours post-injury through gym-based phases, running criteria, and high-speed return-to-play drills. Andrew also explains why return to performance is not the same as return to play, and how criteria-based progression can take the guesswork out of rehab. Listeners will learn about: Diagnosis and planning in the acute phase Supplementary criteria for safe progression Gym phase 1 (foundations) and gym phase 2 (reconditioning) Return-to-running benchmarks How to adapt elite protocols to resource-limited settings The critical role of trust, communication, and psychological readiness This episode is essential listening for physiotherapists, coaches, and practitioners supporting injured players on their journey back to performance. Follow us on social media for more resources:Instagram & TikTok: @womens.football.hub | X: @_WFootballHub #WomensFootball #InjuryPrevention #ReturnToPerformance #SportsPhysio

Title: Wellbeing in Football with Jenny Coe: Performance Through Wellbeing Episode summary:Host Carolyn Kent speaks with performance psychologist Jenny Coe (West Ham United, UK Sport, former Performance Wellbeing Lead at The FA; now Senior Lead for Workforce Development) about the foundations of wellbeing in women’s and girls’ football. Jenny explains why feeling safe, supported and valued as a whole person underpins performance, and how clubs can embed wellbeing into the rhythm of the season rather than treat it as a tick-box exercise. What you’ll learn: How identity, purpose and psychological safety shape on‑pitch performance The real-world challenges facing female players: financial insecurity, injury, transitions, social media The coach’s role in setting tone and culture (and how a single comment can undo weeks of progress) Practical examples: staff collaboration, curiosity over contempt, player‑led check‑ins Tech overload vs. informed choice: using data without letting it define wellbeing “Design for everyone” from day one—so players can thrive without bolt‑ons Connect with Jenny: Impact the Game | LinkedIn About WFH:Women’s Football Hub is a not‑for‑profit amplifying evidence-based practice in women’s football across sports medicine, S&C, psychology, nutrition and more. Hashtags:#womensfootball #sportspsychology #wellbeing #femaleathlete #playercare #coaching #psychologicalsafety #performance #womeninsport

Athletic Development – What Do Young Females Need?With Erica Mulholland (Instagram: @fitsoccerqueen.), USA Masters sprinter, strength & speed coach, and host of The Strong Female Athlete.   In this episode, Carolyn Kent sits down with Erica to explore how to build stronger, faster, more resilient young female footballers—without adding unnecessary load to an already packed week. Expect clear principles you can apply tomorrow: progressive overload done well, in-season “minimum effective dose,” and the exact speed elements to prioritise in warm-ups. We also debunk common social media myths (ladders, anyone?) and talk honestly about confidence, recovery, and the pressure to “do more.”  Highlights Coaching belief: why many girls can lift more than they think—and how to progress safely.  In-season planning: low-rep, high-intent sessions that keep athletes fresh for matches.  Speed inside the warm-up (10–12 minutes): short, high-quality exposures that protect hamstrings.  Myths vs reality: circuit “busy work,” ladders, and sand workouts explained.  Recovery matters: sleep, nutrition, hydration—and why “more” isn’t better.  Support the Hub: Our merch store helps fund free education for players, parents, coaches and clinicians.  Disclaimer: This episode is for information only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Please consult a healthcare professional for personal guidance.  #Hashtags#WomensFootball #FemaleAthlete #StrengthAndConditioning #YouthSport #SpeedWork #FootballFitness #ACLPrevention #GirlsInFootball

In this episode of Women’s Football Hub, Carolyn Kent sits down with sports scientist Andrew Wiseman to discuss the physical preparation of female players. With years of experience in elite football – including the WSL, academies, and international environments – Andrew offers valuable insights into training load, injury risk, recovery, and the unique considerations for female athletes. Topics include: How physical preparation has evolved in football Balancing training load with recovery Understanding individual athlete needs The role of sports science and collaboration with coaching staff Youth development and long-term athlete health Whether you’re a coach, physio, sports scientist, or player, this episode will give you practical tools and food for thought to help improve performance and reduce injury risk in women’s football. Follow us at @womens.football.hub on Instagram & TikTok, and @_WFootballhub on X.

Are your boots helping your game or putting you at risk? In this week’s episode of the Women's Football Hub Podcast, Carolyn Kent is joined by Dr Danyon Loud, a football boot researcher and sports engineer from the University of Adelaide, to discuss what really matters when choosing football boots. We tackle: Why many football boots are still designed for male feet How stud design affects injury risk, especially for female players Whether “speed boots” actually make you faster (spoiler: they don’t) How comfort and fit out of the box can reduce injury risk Best boots for 3G and 4G surfaces Whether you're a player, coach, or physio, this episode is packed with practical advice to help you make more informed decisions about boot selection. 📲 Available on all major podcast platforms.🔗 Visit www.womensfootballhub.com for blogs, episodes, and resources. #FootballBoots #WomensFootball #DanyonLoud #InjuryPrevention #BootDesign #Performance #SportsEngineering #FemaleAthlete #WomenInSport 

In this episode, sports science consultant Jo Clubb (Global Performance Insights) joins Carolyn Kent to discuss the real purpose of sports science — and why it's not just about collecting data. From elite football to the NFL and NHL, Jo shares stories and insights on performance, communication, athlete wellness, and the careful integration of tech. This episode is packed with reflections and practical advice for students, coaches, physiotherapists, and high-performance practitioners. You'll learn: Why starting with questions — not gadgets — is key How to get real value from wellness data What good communication looks like in elite environments The evolving role of AI in sports science 🎧 Tune in now to rethink what effective sports science truly looks like. Find Jo’s blog and content at: https://globalperformanceinsights.comSupport our podcast & mission: https://womensfootballhub.deco-apparel.com/ #SportsScience #WomensFootball #TechInSport #PerformanceSupport #JoClubb #AIinSport #HighPerformance #FootballScience #PhysioInSport #GlobalPerformanceInsights

In this episode of the Women's Football Hub Podcast, host Carolyn Kent is joined by Dr Jessica Beal Stahl and sports pharmacist Emily Shears for a critical conversation about GLP-1 receptor agonists – better known as Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro. We unpack: How these drugs work in the body Why they were developed for diabetes and are now used more broadly (including PCOS, weight loss) Risks and side effects (appetite suppression, GI distress, nutrient depletion, ‘Ozempic teeth’, hormonal impacts) Black market concerns and safety issues Implications for female athletes (RED-S, sarcopenia, performance monitoring) Ethical and regulatory questions around sport This episode is essential for athletes, coaches, clinicians and anyone supporting female players. 🛒 Support the Hub by visiting www.womensfootballhub.com ⚠️ Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Please consult a healthcare professional for personal guidance. #WomensFootballHub #FemaleAthleteHealth #GLP1 #Ozempic #Wegovy #Mounjaro #SportsPharmacy

Menstrual health isn’t a “nice to have” in football – it’s essential. In this episode of Women’s Football Hub, we’re joined by sports scientist Julia Donnelly – head of performance at Athlete Focused and soon-to-be Dr Donnelly – who’s just completed a PhD investigating the menstrual cycle in football. Julia shares her research on:✅ How players experience symptoms that impact performance✅ Why there’s still so much stigma and silence around periods in sport✅ The huge communication gaps between players and coaches✅ What real support looks like, from visibility to education✅ Simple, practical changes clubs can make to break the taboo If you’re a coach, practitioner, or anyone working with female players – this is essential listening to help you support your athletes better. 🎧 Tune in now and join the movement to make menstrual health a normal part of football. #WomensFootballHub #WomenInSport #FootballPodcast #MenstrualHealth #FemaleAthleteHealth #GrowTheGame

Sleep Posture: Controlling the Controllables with Louise Rogerson and Team GB Olympian Katy Marchant In this episode of the Women's Football Hub Podcast, host Carolyn Kent is joined by neurological physiotherapist Louise Rogerson (Chief Clinical Officer at Levitex) and Team GB Olympic track cyclist Katy Marchant to explore a topic that's often overlooked in athlete recovery: sleep posture. You'll hear:✅ What "sleep posture" really means✅ How it impacts pain, recovery, and performance✅ Recommended positions to try (the "Dreamer" and the "Soldier")✅ Katy's journey from chronic SIJ pain to improved sleep and training✅ Evidence behind sleep posture recommendations✅ Tips for travelling athletes✅ Advice for youth athletes and anyone wanting better sleep This episode is full of practical, evidence-informed advice for athletes, physiotherapists, and anyone wanting to get the most out of their sleep. 🛒 Support our not-for-profit mission to grow the women's game by visiting our merch store:👉 https://www.womensfootballhub.com 💬 Follow us on social media and join the conversation. #SleepPosture #WomensFootball #SportsPhysio #AthleteHealth #Recovery #Podcast

This week on the Women’s Football Hub Podcast, Dr Ian Cookson is joined by sport and exercise psychologist in training Mark Eastup for a brilliant deep dive into Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) — a modern, values-driven approach that’s making waves in performance sport. Mark shares his journey from clinical mental health settings to working in women’s football, and breaks down: What ACT is and why it's different from CBT and REBT How he uses ACT to support coaches and players in football Real examples of helping coaches align values with on-pitch behaviour 🎙️ If you're a coach, parent, or player looking to understand how sport psychology supports whole-person development, this is the episode for you. Visit womensfootballhub.com to explore more.

: 🎧 UEFA A Coach Andy Driscoll on Coaching, Confidence & the 3 Rs FrameworkIn this episode of the Women’s Football Hub Podcast, host Carolyn Kent speaks with UEFA A Licensed coach Andy Driscoll about his coaching journey, the realities of the badge pathway, and how his 3 Rs framework – Reflection, Realism, Repeat – can help coaches at every level. 💬 Topics covered: Andy’s path from playing to UEFA A coaching What it really takes to earn the badge Why teaching skills are essential for great coaching How grassroots coaches can apply elite principles Barriers women face in coaching – and how to break them down The importance of mentorship and planning Whether you're coaching U12s or dreaming of the pro game, this episode is packed with insight and support to help you grow. 🛍️ Support the HubWe’re a not-for-profit championing women’s and girls’ football. Browse our merch and support the game from the ground up:👉 www.womensfootballhub.com 📱 Follow us for moreIG & TikTok: @womens.football.hubX (Twitter): @_WFootballHubWebsite: www.womensfootballhub.com 🎙️ Subscribe. Review. Share.Let’s grow the game, one episode at a time.

🎙 Podcast Title: Safeguarding in Football with Sally O'Donnell 📍 Episode Summary:In this essential episode of the Women's Football Hub podcast, host Carolyn Kent speaks with safeguarding consultant Sally O'Donnell about the importance of safeguarding across all levels of football—from grassroots to the professional game. With a powerful blend of personal experience and professional expertise, Sally breaks down what safeguarding really means, why it's often misunderstood, and how clubs can create safe, thriving environments for players and staff. 💬 Guest: Sally O'Donnell – Safeguarding Consultant & Founder of SO Training and Consulting 📌 Topics Covered: Why the word safeguarding makes people nervous—and why it shouldn’t Sally’s journey from criminal justice to football safeguarding What safeguarding looks like in a football academy and on match day Red flags to watch out for in coaching behaviour Key policies every football club should have in place Creating effective safeguarding cultures: safety, trust & collaboration How parents and caregivers can support safe environments 🔥 Standout Quotes: “I’m there to be friendly, but I’m not there to be friends.”“Would you accept that behavior from your child’s teacher? Then why accept it from a coach?”“Safeguarding is not just about abuse—it’s about creating safe spaces where everyone thrives.” 📚 Resources Mentioned: FA Safeguarding Courses Sally’s consulting service: So Training and Consulting 📢 Call to Action:If you're involved in football at any level, this episode is a must-listen. Whether you're a coach, parent, or club volunteer—safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility.   🔗 Connect with Sally: https://safeguarding-so.co.uk/play-it-safe/

🎙️ “ACL Injuries in Female Youth Players” – with Miss Morgan Bailey🗣️ Hosted by Carolyn Kent and student co-host Lotte Black 🔹 Episode Summary: In this episode of Women's Football Hub, we’re joined by Miss Morgan Bailey – a consultant trauma and orthopaedic surgeon and chair of the Women’s ACL Orthopaedic Steering Group. Together with co-host and strength coach Lotte Black, we dive deep into one of the most talked-about topics in women’s football: ACL injuries in female youth players. From surgery to prevention, to practical coaching solutions – this episode is packed with evidence-based insights and powerful perspectives on protecting young athletes. 🔑 Key Topics Covered: ⚠️ Why ACL injuries in youth players are rising 20x increase in adolescent ACL injuries over the past 20 years Specialisation, overtraining, and underprepared support systems 🧬 The female factor: Sex-based vs. gender-based injury risks Hormonal changes, alignment, and menstrual cycle impacts Gender inequality in kit design, pitches, coaching, and care access 💥 What coaches NEED to know about injury prevention Neuromuscular warm-ups reduce injuries by up to 70% Why plyometrics are the most overlooked warm-up component 🛠️ Surgical decision-making in young players Growth plate concerns and graft choices When surgery is necessary—and when it's not Long-term implications for young athletes' knee health and careers 🧠 The psychology behind teenage rehab Managing expectations for return to play Supporting autonomy in adolescent decision-making Importance of physio and peer support 🔗 Resources Mentioned: 💪 Power Up to Play – www.poweruptoplay.org 🎧 Listen Now: Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts & all major platforms.🔗 Don’t forget to follow, rate, and share the episode!

🎙️ Episode Title: Intuition with Melissa Dhillon Hosted by Dr Ian CooksonGuest: Melissa Dhillon, Chartered Sport and Exercise Scientist & MSc in Sport and Exercise PsychologyListen now at www.womensfootballhub.com or on your favourite podcast app 🔑 Episode Summary: In this episode, Dr Ian Cookson sits down with Melissa Dhillon to explore the power of intuition in sport. Melissa draws on her extensive experience, including her work with Birmingham Women’s and Girls Football Club, to unpack the psychological demands of players and how creating a safe, trusting environment can unlock performance. The episode delves into the differences in psychological needs between men and women in sport, the role of intuition in decision-making, and how flow state can elevate performance. 🧠 Key Topics: The importance of building safe, trusting spaces for athletes to thrive Gender differences in communication and emotional support in football How Melissa uses experience across tennis, golf, and boxing to understand mental demands What intuition really means in sport – and how to train it The balance between technical coaching and allowing players to develop instinctive decision-making Creating flow state and the psychological value of "the zone" Why children are naturally intuitive – and how we often interrupt that Encouraging autonomy and responsibility in players 💬 Key Quote: “Intuition is the brain’s ability to process stored information based on experience – it’s not magic, it’s learned, and it’s powerful.” 🎯 Who’s it for? Perfect for coaches, players, parents and support staff who want to better understand the psychological layers that shape confidence and decision-making in female footballers. 📲 Connect with Melissa: Website: www.athletesinthezone.com Instagram: @melissadhillonitz LinkedIn: Melissa Dhillon 🔔 Support the Hub Love what we do? Visit the Women’s Football Hub Merch Store to grab your kit and help us champion women’s football – one hoodie at a time.

🎙️ “Rebuilding Stronger: ACL Recovery & Resilience in Young Female Athletes” – with Elliot Greenberg & Dr. Ted Ganley🗣️ Hosted by Carolyn Kent, co-hosted by Lindsey Cornish 🔹 Episode Summary: In this episode of Women's Football Hub, host Carolyn Kent and co-host Lindsey Cornish are joined by two world-class experts from the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia: Elliot Greenberg, a clinical specialist in ACL rehab, and Dr. Ted Ganley, an orthopedic surgeon and director of the Sports Medicine and Performance Center. Together, they unpack the full ACL journey—from surgery and rehab to re-injury prevention and mental health—offering unique insights into supporting young female footballers through one of the most challenging injuries in sport. 🔑 Key Topics Covered: 🧠 The Emotional Impact of ACL Rehab “It’s not the pain—it’s the identity loss” How staying socially connected boosts recovery ⚙️ Why Rehab Isn’t One-Size-Fits-All Pediatric rehab milestones vs adult protocols Strength, neuromuscular control & realistic timelines Language matters: “You’re not ‘cleared’—you’re progressing” 🦵 Re-injury Risks & Return-to-Play Why 9 months is just a minimum Why symmetry ≠ readiness Elliot’s favorite quote: “Being strong is good. Accessing strength quickly is better.” ⚽ Coaches, Parents & Prevention Injury prevention starts BEFORE elite level Strength training bias: Are we underloading female athletes? Reinforce injury prevention after return to play 🩺 Surgical & Long-Term Considerations How growth plates affect graft choice What “stronger than ever” really means post-ACL The uncomfortable reality of early-onset arthritis 🧭 Quotes to Remember: “Recovery is not linear—every athlete is on their own journey.” – Elliot Greenberg “ACL surgery is just the helicopter ride to base camp—rehab is the real mountain climb.” – Dr. Ted Ganley “The goal of ACL surgery isn’t elite status—it’s preserving knee health for life.” 🔗 Resources Mentioned: 📚 U.S. injury data & sport-specific risk breakdowns 🧠 Sports psychology integration in rehab 💡 Machine learning in predicting ACL reinjury risk (Greenberg & Ganley, 2024) 🎧 Listen Now: Find the full episode on Spotify, Apple Podcasts & all major platforms.🔗 Subscribe and share with anyone supporting female youth athletes!